A surge in coordinated attacks by al-Qaeda-linked JNIM across western and central Mali has intensified insecurity and exposed weaknesses in the Malian army despite support from Russian Africa Corps paramilitaries. Civilians and foreigners, including three Indian nationals taken hostage, are increasingly at risk as violence escalates. Experts warn that the military-led government’s security strategy is failing, with poor troop deployment, limited local intelligence integration, and an overreliance on military force. Political tensions have deepened following the dissolution of political parties and a new law granting transitional leader Assimi Goita a renewable five-year presidential term. Russia’s role has shifted toward economic agreements despite waning security effectiveness since Wagner’s withdrawal. As attacks spread to previously stable regions, analysts caution that Mali faces a prolonged cycle of violence with no immediate political or security solution in sight.

In Sanankoroba, Mali, residents are battling severe air pollution caused by the Indian company SAGL MALI Recyclers SARL's battery recycling plant. The plant's emissions have led to widespread health issues, including respiratory and skin illnesses. Despite acknowledging the pollution, the company's director insists on regulatory compliance. Local authorities and the Marlian government face criticism for inadequate action and transparency. The community, supported by activists, demands the plant's closure or relocation, citing ongoing environmental and health hazards.

The article investigates the mismanagement and corruption surrounding Mali's COVID-19 relief funds. Businessman Boubacar Thiam and other donors contributed to a voluntary fund, but the money's fate remains unclear. The government, led by Prime Minister Boubou Cissé, failed to provide transparency, and much of the aid did not reach the intended beneficiaries. Development partners like the EU, IMF, and World Bank provided substantial funds, but these were also mismanaged. Health workers and poor communities received little to no support, while government officials and certain businesses benefited. The article highlights the lack of accountability and the ongoing need for aid in Mali.

Cabo Delgado, Mozambique, faces a severe humanitarian crisis exacerbated by militant attacks and the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite a $670 million COVID-19 relief budget from international donors, little aid has reached the province. Investigations reveal mismanagement and corruption, with funds diverted to unrelated expenses and military purchases. Local health facilities, supported by NGOs, struggle with inadequate resources. The Mozambican government and provincial authorities show a lack of transparency and accountability, raising concerns about the effective use of international aid.

In 2002, seven discreet bank accounts were opened for the Conférence épiscopale du Mali (CEM) at Crédit lyonnais in Monaco, later transferred to HSBC Private Bank in Geneva. By 2007, these accounts held 12 million euros. The scandal, revealed by SwissLeaks in 2015, involves top CEM leaders, including Archbishop Jean Zerbo, who was recently made a cardinal. The funds' origins and management remain opaque, causing unrest among Mali's Christian community. Despite denials and evasions from involved parties, the lack of transparency and potential misuse of church funds have led to significant controversy.

A transnational investigation across Kenya, Somalia, Mali, Burkina Faso and Nigeria argues that military-only counterterrorism strategies can strengthen jihadist recruitment by combining state abuse with poverty, marginalization and weak governance. In Kenya, alleged police and military disappearances, torture and extrajudicial killings alienate Somali communities and help Al-Shabaab recruit. In Somalia and northern Mali, insurgents gain acceptance where corrupt or absent governments fail to provide security, justice, jobs and public services. Burkina Faso activists oppose both jihadist violence and an expanded Western military presence, warning that it may reinforce authoritarian networks. Nigeria offers a more hopeful example: Radio Dandal Kura, improved military conduct under President Muhammadu Buhari and cooperation with local youth volunteers appear to have increased trust and weakened Boko Haram, though poverty, displacement and the future demobilization of armed vigilantes remain major risks. The investigation concludes that accountable, rights-respecting and effective governance is more important to lasting security than intensified militarization alone.

Imam Mahmoud Dicko, a prominent religious leader in Mali, has sparked controversy with his homophobic remarks, linking terrorism to the presence of homosexuals and Western influence. His statements have incited homophobia in the capital's mosques and drawn criticism from human rights activists and legal authorities. Despite backlash, his supporters defend his views, reflecting deep-seated conservative beliefs. The political silence on the issue highlights the influence of religious leaders in Mali's political landscape.